Definitions.
(a) “Masthead light” means a white light placed over the fore and aft centerline of the vessel showing an unbroken light over an arc of horizon of 225 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on either side of the vessel.
(b) “Sidelights” means a green light on the starboard side and a red light on the port side each showing an unbroken light over an arc of horizon of 112.5 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on the respective side. In a vessel of less than 20 meters in length the sidelights may be combined in one lantern carried on the fore and aft centerline of the vessel.
(c) “Sternlight”, means a white light placed as nearly as practicable at the stern showing an unbroken light over an arc of horizon of 135 degrees and so fixed as to show the light 67.5 degrees from right aft on each side of the vessel.
(d) “Towing light” means a yellow light having the same characteristics as the “sternlight” defined in paragraph (c) of this Rule.
(e) “All round light” means a light showing an unbroken light over an arc of horizon of 360 degrees.
(f) “Flashing light” means a light flashing at regular intervals at a frequency of 120 flashes or more per minute.
The magic number with this rule is 22½ degrees. With the exception of all round lights, all other navigation lights will show their lights over an arc of the horizon, to a point that is 22½ degrees abaft the beam, irrespective of whether it is a sidelight, stern or masthead light. It is recommended that you draw the arcs of visibility of lights out on a piece of paper, in order that you can determine clearly in your own mind, what is where.
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